Survival Skills For Studying Abroad in Costa Rica

I am in Costa Rica directing a five week university study abroad program, UNO Costa Rica. This country is an idyllic place with friendly people, beautiful beaches, breathtaking views, erupting volcanoes and green foliage everywhere. It seems like paradise but sometimes things don’t turn the way we planned.

In the town where our program is located, San Ramon, we are experiencing a drought. Every day, the water is turned off approximately from 2 to 6 p.m. But last night a major pipe broke in the main water supply plant and we have not had water ALL DAY! It is hard enough to get acquainted with the electric shower but once the water comes back, you will have to get used to the strange noises the pipes make from trapped air. Then in Costa Rica, there is the occasional black out. You get up in the middle of the night and nothing comes on to light your path!

So what to do in these situations?

1. The “I am sure the water is coming back any minute bath”. You break out the baby wipes and you use this to wash. I know, it’s not the best feeling but at least you will feel cleaner.

2. Once you realize that the water is really not coming back anytime soon, you go to plan “B”. Get a large bucket or container that you have filled prior to the water outage (most locals keep this prepared at home during the water outages so learn from them). The water will be cold so heat up a pot and pour it back in. You get a small container to scoop it out and there you  are, a bath like the good old days at grandmother’s house. (If you are old enough to remember such experience!). This also comes in handy to flush toilets.

3. Don’t be scared once the water comes back. Most showers in Costa Rica are called “electric showers” because they do not run on water heaters. Instead, they have a heating element that warms the water as it passes through. That’s why the water is hot when you have low flow and gets cool when you turn it to a stronger flow. The noises are trapped gases in the pipes from being off too long. Just keep focusing on how happy you are that you have water at last!

4. Bugs love to come see the world when the water is off for too long. Yes, bugs of all kinds come out and visit. Most are harmless, they are seeking water just like you are. Don’t be afraid to swat them away, they won’t enjoy it and most likely wil leave on their own.

5. If all fails and the water is still not on, get your cool program director to take the group to a waterfall park. The places are spectacular and the waterfalls offer free showers for everyone!

5. Be prepared for the  blackout. This happens quite often and if you remember to keep a flashlight by your bedside it will be just a small inconvenience.

6. Finally, learn to be flexible and enjoy this beautiful country. Even with the inconveniences you need to adjust to, there are a million other wonderful reasons to love studying abroad in Costa Rica! And just think of all the great stories you will have to tell when you get back. Pura Vida!